Job Description
HIRING NOW: Animal Caretaker & Kennel Technician Help Save the Lives of Senior & Special-Needs Dogs Every Day Hugs For Harry is a sanctuary-style 501(c)(3) nonprofit rescue dedicated to senior, special-needs, abused, and overlooked dogs who have nowhere else to go. These dogs rely on us completely for their safety, health, emotional wellbeing, and daily care. We take that responsibility seriously. We are currently hiring dependable, hardworking Animal Caretakers & Kennel Technicians who are compassionate, calm under pressure, and willing to work in a physically demanding but deeply meaningful environment. Position Animal Caretaker & Kennel Technician Location: Lafayette, CA Available Shifts 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM Weekends: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM (flex scheduling available) Some holidays required What You’ll Do This is hands-on rescue work that directly impacts the lives of vulnerable dogs every single day. Responsibilities include: Maintaining a clean, sanitary, and organized rescue environment Cleaning kennels and play areas Picking up waste and sanitizing surfaces Refreshing bedding, water, and feeding stations Feeding dogs and monitoring appetite and behavior Walking and safely handling dogs of all sizes and temperaments Monitoring dogs for medical or behavioral concerns and reporting changes immediately Providing calm, positive interaction and emotional reassurance Assisting with daily care for up to 50 dogs Your consistency, attention to detail, and care help create the stable environment these dogs desperately need. Who Thrives Here This role is ideal for someone who: Truly enjoys working around dogs all day Is reliable, emotionally mature, and proactive Works well independently without constant supervision Can remain calm and focused in a fast-paced environment Takes pride in cleanliness and organization Is physically active and comfortable on their feet for extended periods Understands that rescue work is both physically demanding and emotionally intense Has strong communication skills and a team-oriented attitude This is not a desk job or a casual “play with puppies” role. It is real rescue work that requires patience, structure, accountability, and heart. Requirements Must have reliable transportation Must be comfortable lifting 75+ lbs with assistance when needed Must be comfortable working around large groups of dogs, each with their own needs Must be willing to work some weekends and holidays Must be dependable and punctual Must be able to multitask and maintain focus in a busy environment Previous kennel, daycare, veterinary, grooming, or rescue experience is a plus — but not required for the right person Our Mission At Hugs For Harry, we believe the senior, fragile, abandoned, and forgotten dogs deserve the same love and dignity as every other animal. Many of the dogs who come through our doors have experienced neglect, loss, trauma, or abandonment. Some will find forever homes. Others will remain with us for life. We are committed to giving them safety, structure, compassion, and the chance to heal. Why Join Us The work is hard. The days are busy. The responsibility is real. But every shift matters. You become part of a mission that changes lives — not just for the dogs, but for the people who eventually fall in love with them. The tail wags, trust, and transformations are worth everything. If you’re looking for meaningful work where you can genuinely make a difference, we would love to hear from you. Pay: $16.90 - $20.00 per hour Work Location: In person